Major corporations and growing startups alike face a critical challenge: they have massive amounts of data but too few leaders who can transform it into strategic action. This expertise gap has created exceptional opportunities for experts in both data analytics and business strategy. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlights this demand, projecting 36% growth for data scientists through 2031, which is seven times faster than the average for all occupations.
For ambitious professionals ready to step into these high-impact roles, an advanced business degree in data analytics provides the perfect fusion of technical mastery and business leadership. The Eastern Washington University (EWU) online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Data Analytics Concentration program is specifically designed to develop the next generation of data-driven business leaders.
What is Data Analytics?
Data analytics transforms raw information into actionable business insights through sophisticated analysis techniques. It encompasses everything from describing past performance to predicting future trends and prescribing optimal courses of action. Modern businesses rely on data analytics to optimize operations, enhance customer experiences and drive strategic decision-making across every department.
The field combines statistical analysis, technological tools and business strategy to extract meaningful patterns from large datasets. These insights enable organizations to identify growth opportunities, streamline operations and maintain competitive advantages in their markets. From retail inventory management to healthcare patient outcomes, data analytics touches virtually every sector of the modern economy.
Is an MBA in Data Analytics Worth It?
The value proposition of a data analytics MBA extends far beyond the immediate salary benefits, though these are substantial. Professionals with an MBA in business analytics earn an average of $84,000 annually, with many roles offering significantly higher compensation. However, the degree’s true worth lies in its unique combination of technical proficiency and strategic business leadership skills.
An MBA program develops crucial abilities that set graduates apart in the data analytics field. Students learn to connect insights across different business functions, from marketing and finance to operations and supply chain management. This comprehensive business perspective enables them to translate complex data findings into strategic recommendations that resonate with senior executives.
The degree also cultivates essential leadership and communication skills. While strong technical abilities are vital, the ability to present findings clearly, influence stakeholders and lead cross-functional teams often determines career advancement potential. MBA programs provide extensive practice in these crucial soft skills through group projects, presentations and real-world case studies.
What Can I Do with an MBA in Data Analytics?
The career paths available to MBA in data analytics graduates span a wide range of roles and industries. There are many attractive careers graduates of this degree can pursue. All salary information below is from the latest published source data as of March 2025.
Business intelligence analysts — who earn median annual salaries of $97,502 — use data to identify business improvement opportunities and develop strategic recommendations. Supply chain managers leverage analytics to optimize complex global operations, commanding average annual salaries of $99,864.
Management analysts — with average annual salaries of $83,507 — evaluate organizational operations and propose data-driven solutions to enhance efficiency. Marketing managers, earning an average salary of $79,593 annually, use customer data to develop targeted campaigns and measure their effectiveness. Financial analysts ($79,312) and financial advisors ($76,451) utilize data to guide investment decisions and create financial strategies.
Data analysts earn an average of $82,407 annually, and operations analysts average $75,592 annually. These roles represent opportunities where professionals combine their analytical expertise with strategic leadership.
Online MBA in Data Analytics: A Strategic Choice
The evolution of data analytics has created unprecedented opportunities for professionals who can bridge the gap between technical analysis and business strategy. Organizations increasingly seek leaders who can process complex data sets and translate that information into strategic business decisions.
The EWU online MBA with a Data Analytics Concentration prepares graduates for this exact challenge. The curriculum combines core business fundamentals with cutting-edge analytics tools and techniques. Students learn to apply artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to business challenges, create data-based forecasts and effectively communicate insights to diverse audiences.
For working professionals, the online format offers the flexibility to advance their education while maintaining their careers. Accelerated courses make it possible to complete the degree in as few as 16 months, allowing graduates to quickly leverage their new skills in the marketplace.
The AACSB accreditation ensures program quality, while affordable tuition makes the investment more accessible. Students develop immediately applicable skills in statistical analysis, data visualization and ethical decision-making, all within a framework of global business understanding. The program’s emphasis on real-world applications means graduates can immediately implement their learning, whether they aim to advance within their current organization or pursue exciting new opportunities in the expanding field of data analytics.
Learn more about EWU’s online MBA with a Data Analytics Concentration program.
